WPA Rock Garden

For some reason, many people are unaware of this rock garden's existence. Don't miss this beautiful little gem in William Land Park.

It is a one-acre botanical garden consisting of winding, sloping paths with decomposed granite and small steps. It is a wonderful place to walk with infants in slings or with young children, who will find great delight in the smallest of details. It can also be a really fun place for older kids to play hide 'n' seek, as long as they stay in the garden. The paths are not level and the planters have various rocks jutting out, so be sure your little ones are sure-footed or hold hands.

The WPA (stands for Works Progress Administration) Rock Garden was built in 1940. You can see evidence of a (now dry) little lake and meandering "creeks." Plant species here are abundant: deciduous and evergreen trees, palms, perennials, succulents, grasses, reeds, small bamboos, shrubs, ground covers, bulbs, and rhizomes. The design of the garden invokes a certain intimacy; you will feel surrounded by your own personal paradise. The winding paths provide a calm, meditative aspect that is refreshing and relaxing.

In the middle of the garden, there is a (recently built) small arbor with stone benches. It has a plaque that reads in part: "In memory of Norma Cleavenger, a gardener's gardener and a fierce liberal." A nice place to stop and have a little lunch or snack with the kids.

One morning, I shared the paths with a few waddling ducks and some beautiful little birds. On our most recent visit, we shared the garden with bees and hummingbirds. When my kids are a little older, I will begin teaching them the names of the plants -- just like my grandma taught me in our backyard.

If you are interested in gardening and what grows here in Sacramento, you should visit the WPA Rock Garden; it is living testimony to what thrives in our climate zone. Much credit for its beauty goes to Daisy Mah, who came along in 1988 and revived it to its current splendor. She and a handful of volunteers have created and maintained a beautiful landscape here. Way to go, Daisy! You Rock (Garden)!

New Podcast - All About Babies

Our newest podcast is now available to listen to or download! For this show, we interviewed Dr. Anjali Sharma, an OB-GYN with Mercy Healthcare in Sacramento. If you are preganant, or thinking about having a baby in the future, it is well worth a listen. You can find this show, and other podcasts, by clicking here (or at the "podcast" link in the top of the page).

Lost Slough Wetlands

This is a perfect place to bring toddlers and young children for a nature walk. The Lost Slough Wetlands Walk is completely accessible for strollers and wheelchair users. The Preserve is only 25 miles south of Sacramento.

Our visit was in the late afternoon on a very temperate, slightly breezy mid-May day. We began at the Visitor's Center. Our toddlers explored the foot imprints of various birds and mammals and inspected various nests, feathers, bones, shells, and skins in a hands-on exhibit.

We proceeded on the one-mile loop Lost Slough Wetlands Walk that begins and ends at the Visitor Center. Immediately our kids were engrossed in finding ladybugs and butterflies as we walked along the tastefully designed and well-kept paths and bridges. The first bridge had lovely rubbing plates of various animals and plants. We identified flora and fauna along the way, and were fortunate to see a busy beaver in the wetlands on the 1/2 mile wooden boardwalk off of the Wetlands Walk. Other sightings today included a couple of western fence lizards, herons, ducks, and turkey vultures. Here are some pix to get a better idea of the path and views http://share.shutterfly....

There were several well-placed benches to stop and take in the sights, as well as some shady patches. However, be advised on a warmer day to bring plenty of water and hats/sunscreen. All of the paths were clear today though we have heard some of the paths become submerged or muddy after heavy rains.

If you don't mind a dirt path, take the Consumnes River Walk, a 3 mile loop beginning and ending at the Visitor Center. You may also bring your canoe or kayak and access the river from a designated launch site.

At the end of the Wetlands Walk, our toddlers got tired and wanted us to carry them. Overall, it seemed like just the right distance and appeal to keep them interested for an hour and a half at a leisurely pace. What a convenient and wonderful place to get kids excited about nature!